No-Bake Chocolate Protein Bars with Quinoa

🍫 No-Bake Chocolate Protein Bars with Quinoa

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and satisfying snack, these no-bake chocolate protein bars with quinoa are exactly what you need! 💪 Packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and fiber, they make an excellent pre- or post-workout bite.

The addition of quinoa gives these bars a pleasant crunch and a complete amino acid profile — making them a nutrient-dense snack that supports muscle building and sustained energy throughout the day.

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🌾 Why You’ll Love These Bars

• ✅ No baking required — perfect for busy days.
• 🍫 Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies cravings without guilt.
• 💥 High in protein and great for lean muscle development.
• 🌱 Naturally gluten-free and customizable (try peanut butter instead of almond butter!).

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🥣 Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Cook the Quinoa:
   Add quinoa and water to a medium pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Let it cool and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) for the best texture.

2. Prepare the Dates:
   Pulse pitted dates in a food processor until a sticky paste forms. Transfer to a small bowl.

3. Process the Almonds:
   Add raw almonds to the food processor and pulse until they’re coarsely chopped — not too fine.

4. Combine Everything:
   Return the date paste, cooled quinoa, almond butter, protein powder, and optional honey to the food processor. Blend until well combined.

5. Shape the Bars:
   Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and press into bar shapes.

6. Chill and Store:
   Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

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💪 Nutrition per Bar

Each bar provides approximately 331 calories, 11g protein, and a balanced mix of healthy fats and carbs — ideal for refueling muscles or curbing midday hunger.

| Nutrient | Amount | |-----------|--------| | Calories | 331 kcal | | Protein | 11 g | | Carbohydrates | 49 g | | Fat | 13 g | | Fiber | 5 g | | Sugar | 28 g | | Sodium | 40 mg | | Cholesterol | 0 mg |

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💬 What People Are Saying

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These bars are the perfect post-workout snack! Love that they’re no-bake and so filling.” — Lily M.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I swapped almond butter for peanut butter and it worked great. Will make again!” — James R.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “So easy to make and my kids loved them too. Great healthy treat.” — Sara L.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “A bit sweet for my taste with dates and honey, but still delicious.” — Marco T.

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🧊 Pro Tip

For a chocolatey boost, drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top before chilling. You can also add chia seeds or hemp hearts for extra texture and nutrients. 🌿

These No-Bake Chocolate Protein Bars with Quinoa are perfect for meal prep — grab one anytime you need a quick, energizing bite! 🚀